The Will of God: Your Sanctification (1 Thess. 4:1-8)

[Sung Psalm: 36]

Paul thinks the Christian life as a life lived at the intersection of the cross and resurrection of Christ. We share in the sufferings of Christ – we share in his trials and tribulation.

But we also share in his resurrection glory – not just "someday"! Already – by faith – we see him sitting at the right hand of God. Already – by faith – we have been raised with him and are seated with him in the heavenlies.

That is our present identity. I have been crucified with Christ (there is the suffering with him), and it is no longer I who live, but Christ who lives in me – and the life I live in the flesh, I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave himself for me. (Gal 2:20).

This is our present reality in Christ...